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Dear Santaneros,
As we enter a new school year, we’re doing more than just getting ready for the classroom — we’re preparing our community on all levels.
This month, we joined the Pio Pico x Boys & Girls Club Backpack Giveaway, where families picked up supplies like pencil pouches, colored pencils, sharpeners, and more — tools to help our students feel confident and ready to learn. We also saw powerful community energy at our Música, Not Migra fundraiser. I was honored to be a part of an impactful event supporting OC Rapid Response Network. This was my second time helping organize music fundraisers for mutual aid- the first being the Day Laborers Relief Fund. Thank you to everyone who showed up in support of immigrant justice through art, community, and music. We will continue to inform, organize, and protect. Let’s keep showing up — ready, together.
We even got our neighborhoods ready — with a cleanup in Central City where residents filled up the bins faster than expected! It’s exciting to see the area getting active again. If you or your neighbors are open to hosting a cleanup, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Wishing all our bright, talented students a successful start to the new school year! May this year be filled with learning, growth, and exciting opportunities.
In Solidarity,
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez
Ward 2
Learn more about Ward 2 & City
Outdoor Library at Jerome Park and Delhi Library Branch
I was thrilled to join ribbon cutting ceremonies for two new library branches this month!
The Outdoor Library at Jerome Park features a fully enclosed self-service “Mini Library” kiosk with nearly 400 items, outdoor seating with public Wi-Fi, program spaces, and beautiful drought-tolerant landscaping. This outdoor library is the first of its kind in Santa Ana and one of the first to open anywhere.
The new Delhi Library Branch is a 2,500-square-foot space that includes a modern design, outdoor patio, and a special Knowledge Bar to support tech and info needs. It is located in side the Delhi Center.
These two libraries mark the largest expansion of the Santa Ana Public Library system in 50 years and are part of $50 million investment we are making in our library system.
Música Not Migra
I am happy to have been a part of another fundraiser with the Garcia family to support our immigrant community. This time to support powerhouse OC Rapid Response Network. OCRRN has been doing the groundwork for years, actively informing the community on Know Your Rights, ICE tactics and alerts, raising funds to keep families safe at home and working with families who have loved ones in detainment. With everyone’s support, we were able to raise a grand total of ✨$7,785 ✨. Santa Ana, your heart shines and solidarity in your community shines through every time.
THANK YOU to everyone who came out and supported OCRRN.
SAUSD ACADEMIC CALENDAR
Whether you’re in Elementary, Intermediate, or High School, stay ahead of the game! Download the SAUSD 2025–2026 Academic Calendar (PDF) to know key dates, breaks, and more. Print it out, pin it up, and be prepared all year long!
2025-26 Elementary, Intermediate, and High Schools
2025-26 Calendario escolar académico
Financial Aid
The Santa Ana Unified School District has compiled a helpful list of scholarships available to students. Visit the Student Portal for more information on financial aid and scholarship resources.
Student Portal / Financial Aid
CALWorks
As families gear up for the new school year, the Orange County Social Services Agency (SSA) offers essential programs to support those in need. Through the Cash & CalFresh portal, eligible families can access a range of helpful services:
- CalWORKs – Provides temporary cash aid and job support for families with children.
- CalFresh – Helps low-income households buy healthy food (formerly known as Food Stamps).
- General Relief – Offers short-term financial help for adults who don’t qualify for other programs.
- Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) – Supports certain legal non-citizens who are ineligible for other aid.
These programs are designed to ease financial stress and help ensure every child has what they need to succeed in school.
You can apply online, by phone, or in person at any SSA office.
To learn more and get started, visit the Cash & CalFresh page.
FACE Food Resources
SAUSD’s FACE program partners with Second Harvest and SEVA Collective to provide free food distributions for families in need.
Second Harvest & SEVA Collective Food Drive Distributions at SAUSD
Online Tutoring- Santa Ana Public Library (SAPL)
The Santa Ana Public Library offers online tutoring & 24/7 homework assistance to all Santa Ana students in kindergarten through 12th grade.
BrainFuse 24/7 homework assistance help:
- Live Tutoring – Live online help from expert tutors.
- Writing Lab – Expert online writing assistance.
- Language Lab – Live help for language learners.
- Flash Bulb – create and share flashcards, tests, and games.
- eParachute – Discover the college majors and careers that match your skills and interests.
- LEAP Learning Platform – Diagnostic test center with customized study plans, lessons, and live tutoring.
- Summer Camp – Sharpen your math, science and writing skills.
Brainfuse 24/7 Homework Assistance
Class Dojo
Parents and students, ClassDojo connects families and classrooms by providing daily updates, teacher feedback, photos, and videos — all accessible on any device and in multiple languages. Parents can easily stay informed about their child’s progress, while students can take ownership of their learning by tracking feedback and personalizing their accounts. Safe, private, and user-friendly, ClassDojo helps strengthen the home-school connection.
Educational Services
Teachers and parents looking to give kids extra practice can explore these educational services offering fun learning games for various grade levels. Perfect for reinforcing skills at home or in the classroom! Check out these services curated by SAUSD.
Educational Services / Learning Continues: TK – 6 Grades
Educational Resources for Parents
Check out the SAUSD link for helpful resources and guides aimed for student success!
Student Portal / Online Elementary Textbooks & Tools
The Knowledge Mobile
The Santa Ana Public Library (SAPL) Knowledge Mobile (Know-Mo), is a combination of a traditional bookmobile and techmobile, featuring free public Wi-Fi, computers, gaming, STEAM technologies and much more.
It offers the community access to a large, diverse selection of books, family programs, arts and crafts, and take-and-make kits. We are proud to bring the Santa Ana Public Library directly to the people of the city.
Call, email, or follow Santa Ana Public Library on social media and join the Knowledge Mobile in a neighborhood near you.
- (657) 270-0130
- bookmobile@santa-ana.org
- @SantaAnaLibrary
Zip Books from SAPL
Did you know about this *free* Santa Ana Public Library perk? Zip Books enables patrons to request books (either print or audio) that are not available in SAPL’s collection. These items are provided at no cost to patrons and are shipped directly to their homes. After a three-week lending period, patrons may return the items to any library drop-off location to be considered for addition to the collection. For more information please see the FAQ page. Please fill out the form if you would like to put in a request: Zip Books
Library of Things
Level Up Your School Year with SAPL Resources! The Santa Ana Public Library is more than books — it’s your go-to spot for tools, tech and creative support.
Library of Things:
Need a cake pan, camera gear, or roller skates? With your library card, you can borrow practical items like:
- GoPro accessories
- Digital film scanner
- Microphones
- Trekking poles
- Kitchen tools
- And more!
Perfect for personal projects, small businesses, and hobbies.
Note: A library card is required for borrowing. Please contact the library for details.
Library Technology Services
Santa Ana Public offers free access to:
- Wi-Fi hotspots & Chromebooks (for home or on-the-go use)
- Laptops for in-library use
- Media Lab @ Newhope for digital editing & design
- eLibrary for books, movies, and more
- Tech Help (Monday to Friday, 2-6 p.m.)
- Mobile printing from anywhere
Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, or creative — SAPL has you covered. Call 714-647-5250 to learn more.
Note: A library card is required for borrowing. Please contact the library for details.
Community Garden Workshops
Join us for free monthly garden workshops open to all ages! Each month features a new theme focused on gardening and wellness. This August, we’re celebrating Back to School and Family Wellness — a perfect chance to connect with nature, learn together, and support your family’s health.
Get involved and grow with your community! For more information and to register, visit:
Santa Ana Recreation Garden Workshops
Find Art
Los Muralitos Art Club
Unleash your Child’s Creativity and sign up for the Muralito Art Program this Summer. A fun, mixed-media art program for kids ages 6-12 exploring ceramics, charcoal, pastels, and various art techniques, creating their own masterpieces. Let your child discover the joy of art and self-expression with Muralito!
- When: Every Friday at 5:30 p.m.
- Where: Salgado Recreation Center, 706 N. Newhope St., Santa Ana, CA 92704
- Cost: $25 per session (covers all art materials).
Call (714) 571-4267 for more information.
Craft Arts with Roxanne
Sewing Classes – Level 1 & 2
Whether you’re just getting started or ready to build on the basics, these hands-on classes will guide you through fun, beginner-friendly sewing projects. In Level 1, you’ll learn how to thread a machine, cut and pin fabric, and sew straight lines and corners — finishing two coasters and a pillow. Level 2 dives deeper into techniques like using different presser feet, creating ruffles, working with elastic, and changing needles. You’ll complete a ruffled pillow and a mini tote bag.
Bringing your own sewing machine is highly encouraged.
$15 materials fee due on the first day of class.
Level 1:
- Duration: 09/02-09/23
- When: Every Tuesday at 4:30 p.m.
- Where: Jerome Center, 726 S Center St, Santa Ana, CA 92704
- Cost: $45
Level 2:
- Duration: 09/02-09/23
- When: Every Tuesday at 5:40 p.m.
- Where: Jerome Center, 726 S Center St, Santa Ana, CA 92704
- Cost: $45
Scheduled Field Closures
Heads Up: Temporary Field Closures at Several Santa Ana Parks
If you’re a coach, run private training sessions, or simply enjoy spending time at the park — please be aware of upcoming temporary field closures due to scheduled maintenance.
Each year, the City of Santa Ana performs turf recovery and field maintenance on a rotating schedule to improve the quality and safety of our athletic fields. During this time, fields will be completely fenced off and unavailable to the public.
The following parks will be closed through September 2, 2025:
- Cesar Chavez Park – 3311 W. 5th St.
- Centennial Park – 300 W. Edinger Ave.
- Delhi Park – 2314 S. Halladay St.
- Santiago Park – 2535 N. Main St.
Please plan accordingly and consider using nearby open fields while these are temporarily closed for improvements. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to keep our parks in top shape for everyone to enjoy!
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Jorge Acevedo, Public Works Park Services Superintendent, at (714) 647-3324.
Know Your Rights: (Printable) Resources
- Documents to have ready
- Organized Power in Numbers
Know Your Rights: Donations
Help protect immigrant and refugee families facing injustice. Your donation can help these organizations provide legal help, pay bond to reunite families, and offer resources that empower and protect immigrant communities.
Know Your Rights: Bond Applications
- 2025 Bond Fund Application- Orange County Justice Fund
- Immigration Bond Freedom Fund- Community Justice Exchange
- Black Immigrants Bail Fund Application
Rent Stabilization Program Updates
Tenant & Landlord Guidance: Immigration Enforcement
The City of Santa Ana is sharing an important reminder from California Attorney General Rob Bonta: Landlords cannot share tenant information with immigration authorities without proper legal authority.
If ICE requests tenant documents, landlords should:
- Ask to see a warrant or court order and seek legal advice immediately.
- Understand that an ICE administrative warrant or notice to appear does not grant access to records.
- Comply with warrants signed by a judge, but still consult legal counsel when possible.
- Never physically interfere with ICE officers.
Full statement: English | Español
2025–26 Maximum Allowable Rent Increase
Santa Ana’s Rent Stabilization and Just Cause Eviction Ordinance protects most tenants in multi-unit properties built before February 1, 1995, by limiting annual rent increases. For the current period (Sept. 1, 2024 – Aug. 31, 2025), the cap is 3%. Starting Sept. 1, 2025 – Aug. 31, 2026, the maximum allowable rent increase will be 2.42%, based on Consumer Price Index changes. By law, the cap is whichever is lower: 3% or 80% of the CPI change.
Learn more: English | Español | Tiếng Việt
Rent Stabilization Ordinance community resources
If you believe the owner or property manager for your rental unit or mobile home may not be in compliance with our ordinance, or you need help with our rules, please reach out to one of our community partners.
Link Tree- Rent Stabilization Resources
ECO Park Pop Ups
Join Santa Ana Zoo staff as they pop up at parks throughout Santa Ana. Explore nature with fun activities and maybe even meet an animal friend. All programs are FREE. Walk-ups are welcome throughout program time. Fridays from to 3:30 p.m.
- 9/27 and 10/4: French Park
- 10/11 and 10/18: Adams Park
- 10/25 and 11/1: Friendship Park
- 11/8 and 11/15: Ed Caruthers Park
ECO park pop-ups – Santa Ana Zoo
Get free business assistance at City Hall
Our Economic Development team is here to help our local business community. Whether you’re just starting a business, need help with a marketing plan, or have questions about growing your business, our experts are ready to provide guidance.
Stop by Santa Ana City Hall for Business Assistance Office Hours from 8 to 11 a.m. Monday through Thursday. This free service is your opportunity to get personalized advice and take the next step toward building your dream business.
Call the Economic Development Division at (714) 647-5477 for more information.
Step-by-Step Guide to Start Your Business
Meet Heninger Park Neighborhood
Calling all Heninger Park neighbors! Join the next Heninger Park Neighborhood Association meeting to connect with fellow residents, discuss local issues, and stay informed about updates in Santa Ana. We plan events like Neighborhood Cleanup Days, Heninger Haunt, and more! It’s a great opportunity to share your opinions, stay engaged with community matters, and build relationships with your neighbors.
- Next meeting: September 10, 2025
- Where: Heninger Elementary, 417 W. Walnut St.
- Time: 6:30-7:30 p.m.
- Parking: Available in the school’s parking lot located on South Birch Street.
Santa Ana WORK Center- Job openings
The Santa Ana Work Center provides many job opportunities at local companies for full-time and part-time work. Please visit the link below to learn more. I encourage you to apply to work in public service for your community!
Get free business assistance at City Hall
Our Economic Development team is here to help our local business community. Whether you’re just starting a business, need help with a marketing plan, or have questions about growing your business, our experts are ready to provide guidance.
Stop by Santa Ana City Hall for Business Assistance Office Hours from 8 to 11 a.m. Monday through Thursday. This free service is your opportunity to get personalized advice and take the next step toward building your dream business.
Call the Economic Development Division at (714) 647-5477 for more information.
10 Steps to Starting Your Business
My Projects
Chicanxs Unidxs
It was an honor to recognize Chicanxs Unidxs, a grassroots community organization based in Orange County, for their unwavering commitment to justice and empowerment. Founded in 2006, they have been at the forefront of challenging systemic issues such as gang injunctions, which disproportionately affected Chicanx and Latinx communities. Their advocacy has led to significant legal victories, including the dissolution of all 13 gang injunctions in Orange County, a testament to their dedication and resilience. Through their efforts, they continue to inspire and lead the fight for civil rights and community empowerment.
Events & Meetings
City Meetings
- Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission Meeting: August 28
- Planning Commission Meeting: September 8
- City Council Meeting: September 16
View meetings Agenda and Minutes.
View meetings live on our Santa Ana YouTube Channel.
Chicano Heritage Educational Celebration of Culture at the Library
Join Santa Ana Public Library for an Educational Celebration that will feature an Author Hour presentation with local author Luis F. Fernandez and a Chicano History Walk Photo Exhibit.
Luis F. Fernandez will sign copies of his book, “Mexican American Baseball in Orange County,” and have a meet and greet with attendees. Giveaways will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last. The photographic exhibit will highlight the Chicano community experience in Santa Ana from the 1950s to today. This powerful collection invites you to walk through living history — exploring the everyday lives and achievements of the Chicano community.
- Thursday, Aug. 28
- 4:30-7 p.m.
- Santa Ana City Hall Courtyard, 20 Civic Center Plaza
Job Search Strategies – August 28
Learn how to navigate today’s digital job market at the Santa Ana Work Center’s Job Search Strategies workshop! Discover how to optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and explore effective tools within CalJOBS (caljobs.ca.gov), California’s official career platform. The session wraps up with an open Q&A to answer your questions.
- Every 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month | 10-11 a.m.
- Santa Ana WORK Center, 801 W. Civic Center Drive, Suite 200
For more information or to RSVP, call 714-565-2600.
Local Events
Resident Days at the Zoo • Santa Ana Zoo offers free admission for residents every third Sunday
Bowers Museum free Sundays • Santa Ana residents get in free each Sunday
Discovery Cube Waste Free Days • Santa Ana residents get free admission to the Discovery Cube on the first Tuesday of the month.
Who do I call at City Hall?
- Important phone numbers:
-
- City Hall main line: (714) 647-5400
- Code Enforcement: (714) 667-2780
- Graffiti Hotline: (877) 786-7824
- Emergency Water Services: (714) 953-8026
- Public Works dispatch (street sweeping, trees): (714) 647-3380
Utility services
- City utility services
- Southern California Edison: Call 1-800-447-6620
- Southern California Gas: Call 1-800-207-8567
- Trash pick-up: Call (877) 328-2074
Starting a small business?
Download mySantaAna App to Report Issues
The mySantaAna mobile app puts the power of the Santa Ana city government in the palm of your hand! Residents with an iPhone or Android smartphone can download the mySantaAna application for free allowing them to quickly and easily report issues with photos to the City for clean-up. You can report potholes, downed tree branches, graffiti, trash and much more! The app is now available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.
USEFUL RESOURCES
Schedule a bulky item pickup: Call Republic Services at (657) 467-6220
Police Non-Emergency Line: (714) 245-8665
Emergency Water Services: (714) 953-8026